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Vets step up for scrapheap challenge
"Scrapheap challenge was just one of the many engaging activities that took place over the two-day event last month" - XLVets.

XLVets AGM saw delegates create a 100m-long moveable structure.

More than 80 vets and industry professionals participated in a scrapheap challenge at the recent XLVets annual general meeting (AGM).

Taking place over two days in June, the AGM saw delegates create a 100m-long moveable structure using only what content they could scavenge from the scrap heap. There were also interactive discussions, guest speakers, workshops, karaoke, a beer festival and a pub quiz.

The AGM also provided the backdrop for the launch of THRIVE – XLVets’ new strategic plan. Thrive stands for - Trusting teams, Humanity, Regeneration, Insights, Vet skills and Explore and is designed to support members as the future of veterinary evolves.

Furthermore, a breakout workshop focussing on ‘Regeneration’ included conversations regarding the ongoing work of the XLVets Flexible Working Project with Alice Moore of Garston Vets and Silvia Janska from Flexee.

An XLVets spokesperson said: "Scrapheap challenge was just one of the many engaging activities that took place over the two-day event last month as XLVets broke down the normal expectations of a formal gathering. 

"Without sacrificing quality discussions on relevant topics such as employee ownership trusts and procurement, the AGM was an exciting experience for all who attended. Mirroring the XLVets' values of celebrating individuality and welcoming diversity, everyone had a voice in interactive discussions and workshops."

XLVets chief executive, Andrew Curwen, added: “We continue to welcome new practices, both start-up and established, into our community. Working together delivers success and enjoyment and if you embrace this collaboration, it will embrace you back.”

XLVets is a community of independent practices, enabling members to collaborate with shared knowledge, experience and skills. 

Image (C) XLVets.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

Click here for more...
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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.